Civil Litigation

Online Harassment: Civil Remedies in Ontario

Relentless online attacks can upend a life. Ontario law offers more than just blocking. Here are the civil options.

Person using laptop

In Caplan v. Atas (2021), the Ontario Superior Court recognized a new tort of internet harassment for serious, persistent online campaigns intended to cause harm.

The short answer

Save evidence, report and request takedowns, and consider a lawyer's letter. Serious campaigns may support claims for defamation, internet harassment or privacy, and court orders to remove content.

Save the evidence

  • Screenshots with dates, times and web addresses
  • Account names and links
  • Any messages sent directly to you

Quick options

  • Report content to the platform and ask for removal.
  • Block and restrict contact.
  • Ask a lawyer or paralegal to send a cease and desist letter.

Possible civil claims

  • Defamation: false statements that damage your reputation.
  • Internet harassment: the serious, sustained conduct recognized in Caplan v. Atas.
  • Privacy torts: such as public disclosure of private facts.

Court orders

wooden gavel and block on marble

Courts can order defendants to stop and to remove posts, and in some cases order platforms to reveal who is behind an account.

When to call the police

Threats, stalking-type behaviour (criminal harassment) or sharing intimate images can be crimes. Call 911 if you are in danger.

Talk to NEO

Have a claim, or been sued? NEO represents clients in Small Claims Court (claims up to $50,000) and can tell you if your matter needs a lawyer. Call 647-200-3526 or toll-free 888-519-2435, email info@neolegalservices.com, or book a free consultation.

Sources

Read next: Intimate Images Shared Without Consent: Your Options

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 16 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

Photos from Unsplash: person using laptop · wooden gavel and block on marble.

This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.

Not sure where you stand? A licensed paralegal can look at your documents and tell you your options.

Book a Free Consultation

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Law Society of Ontario — Barreau de l'Ontario
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